Cluj's defence meets Napoli's need
The Champions League returns with FC CFR 1907 Cluj protecting a proud home record against a Napoli side desperate for points.
“We have to make the home crowd count, because every point now is worth its weight.”
That is the message from the Cluj camp as they prepare to face Napoli in the UEFA Champions League on 19 February. The Romanian champions sit 15th in the league phase with 13 points from eight games, while Napoli are 22nd with nine. With only two rounds left, the margin for error is thin.
Cluj arrive unbeaten in 21 league games in their own competition, though that counts for nothing here. What matters is a home record against 4-4-2 systems that reads five wins and a draw from six games, with 18 goals scored and five conceded. Napoli, for their part, have used a 4-4-2 in eight of their last 12 matches, but their record against a 4-3-3 DM Wide is more modest: five wins, three draws, three losses.
The home side will be without first-choice goalkeeper Cornel Furdui and right-back Wilson, both injured. Rafael steps in between the posts, while Sven Borchers and Romeo Matei anchor the defence. In midfield, Dariusz Michalik shields the back line, while Jefferson José and Dionysis Margaris provide width. Éverton leads the line.
Napoli's own concerns are at full-back: Stéphane Assélé is a doubt with a bruised thigh, though he is expected to start. Donaldo Meschini drops to the bench after a run of uneven form, replaced by Gianluca Herrera in midfield. Up front, Basile Pirson is tired but likely to play alongside Rammy Karagula.
The last meeting, in October, ended 2-2. Cluj led twice through Sven Borchers' penalty and Jefferson José's strike, but Reginaldo's late equaliser earned Napoli a point. Since then, Cluj have sold Cosmin Lupu to Manchester United for £11.8 million, while Napoli have strengthened in midfield.
The key duel may be on Cluj's left, where Margaris faces Alejandro Puig. Margaris has pace and acceleration, but Puig's tackling should test him. In the air, Matei holds the edge over Pirson.
Cluj's home form in this competition has been solid, and they will need it again. Napoli, meanwhile, cannot afford another slip. “We know what is at stake,” said a Napoli player. “We have to take our chances.”